Major Summer Farm Shows Draw Big Crowds

Two of the largest summer farm shows in agriculture, the Farm Progress Show and the Husker Harvest Show, once again drew big crowds of ag producers curious to learn what’s new in agriculture.

As usual, weather again played a role, with a storm-shortened Farm Progress Show near Boone, Iowa, and hot windy conditions at the Husker Harvest Show outside of Grand Island, Neb. But weather challenges are nothing new for farmers, and both shows recorded excellent attendance.

Farm Progress Show, Boone, Iowa

Billed as the World’s Fair of Agriculture, the Farm Progress Show is the nation’s largest outdoor farm show. Here are some interesting statistics:

More than 150,000 visitors from more than 40 countries over the three-day event

More than 600 exhibitors on 90 acres of exhibit space

360 acres of field demonstrations

More than 50,000 bottles of water consumed

Perhaps some of the biggest draws to the show are the in-field equipment demonstrations and the opportunity to experience firsthand new products and new technology designed to improve farming efficiency and profitability.

“The exhibits have certainly become larger and quite impressive as the major brands in agriculture compete for the show-goers’ time and attention,” said Squier. “The creativity and messaging that goes into a company’s presence at the show just continues to improve each year.”

Moss said the show is a great way to re-connect with many ag industry representatives.

“Attending the show is a great way to stay in touch with many of the industry representatives we rely on to support our clients,” she said. “For me it’s a real time saver to meet with so many reps in a single day.”

Husker Harvest, Grand Island, Neb.

Although not as well-attended as the Farm Progress Show, the Husker Harvest Show has equally impressive numbers to share:

Over 100,000 visitors during the three-day event

600+ exhibitors

Largest totally irrigated farm show

30 years of live cattle handling demonstrations

Perhaps the biggest difference between the two shows is the emphasis on irrigation equipment and technology at the Husker Harvest Show, along with a greater number of livestock industry exhibitors, which makes sense given the geographic area the show represents.

Guse, who attended the Husker Harvest Show, noted improvements made to the show grounds over the past year.

“There are now over 5.5 miles of concrete paved roads within the Husker show grounds”, he said. “I believe there were over $7 million in upgrades to make it a more enjoyable experience for farmers attending the show. The paved roads will help immensely during storms,” he added.

Guse mentioned that the stock dog demonstrations drew lots of interest as well as the antique equipment displays.